Arunachal Cyclone

1. IMD issues red alert for Arunachal Pradesh as Cyclone Remal nears.
2. Severe thunderstorms with lightning and heavy rainfall are expected for the next three days.
3. Alert affects Papumpare, West Kameng, East Kameng, and Pakke-Kessang districts.

Itanagar, May 28: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for Arunachal Pradesh as Cyclone Remal approaches, predicting severe thunderstorms with lightning and extremely heavy rainfall over the next three days.

The alert specifically impacts the districts of Papumpare, West Kameng, East Kameng, and Pakke-Kessang.

Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu took to the microblogging site X to announce the alert, urging residents to exercise caution and avoid vulnerable and isolated locations.

“I request everyone to take all precautionary measures and avoid vulnerable and isolated locations,” Khandu wrote, underscoring the potential dangers posed by the approaching cyclone.

The IMD has detailed that thunderstorms with lightning and extremely heavy rainfall are expected in isolated places within Papumpare and West Kameng districts, while East Kameng and Pakke-Kessang districts should prepare for very heavy rainfall and lightning on May 28 and 29.

Additionally, Kurung Kumey, Lower Subansiri, Shi-Yomi, West Siang, Lohit, Changlang, Tirap, and Longding districts are also likely to experience similar weather conditions on these dates.

The forecast further extends into May 29 and 30, predicting thunderstorms with lightning and very heavy rainfall in Pakke-Kessang, Papumpare, Siang, Lohit, East Kameng, West Kameng, Kurung Kumey, West Siang, and Lower Dibang Valley districts.

The IMD has warned that the anticipated heavy rainfall could trigger landslides, leading to temporary road blockages and flash floods. These events pose a significant risk to kutcha roads and vulnerable infrastructures. The agency has strongly advised residents to avoid landslide-prone areas during this period.

Chief Minister Khandu also highlighted the need for preparedness in his social media post, emphasizing the importance of staying informed and adhering to safety advisories. “In case of any emergency, please contact the District Administration,” he added, directing citizens to seek assistance from local authorities if needed.

Local governments are currently mobilizing resources and personnel to address potential emergencies. Disaster response teams are on standby, and helplines have been established to provide support and information to residents.

Cyclone Remal’s approach has heightened concerns among residents and authorities alike. The Chief Minister’s proactive stance aims to mitigate the risks associated with the severe weather conditions.

The focus is on minimizing human casualties and property damage through timely and effective response measures.

Emergency services have been bolstered, with medical teams, fire services, and rescue personnel ready to be deployed at a moment’s notice.

The state government has also coordinated with central disaster response agencies to ensure a swift and comprehensive response to any eventualities.

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In addition to government efforts, community organizations and local volunteers are being mobilized to assist in evacuation procedures and to provide support to those in need.

Shelters and relief centers are being prepared to accommodate displaced individuals, ensuring that basic needs such as food, water, and medical care are met.

Educational institutions and public offices in the affected districts have been advised to remain closed during the period of severe weather.

This precautionary measure aims to reduce the number of people on the roads and in vulnerable areas, thereby minimizing potential accidents and injuries.

The IMD continues to monitor the situation closely, providing regular updates and forecasts to keep the public informed.

Weather advisories and alerts are being disseminated through various channels, including social media, local news outlets, and community networks, ensuring that information reaches even the most remote areas.

Residents are urged to stay indoors as much as possible, secure their homes, and keep emergency supplies on hand. This includes essentials like drinking water, non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries, and first aid kits.

The coming days will be challenging, but with coordinated efforts and vigilance, the impact of Cyclone Remal can be managed.

The priority remains on ensuring the safety and well-being of the residents, while improving infrastructure and emergency preparedness to mitigate future natural disasters.